Fall Fashion Preview

This fall fashion goes for high drama! Heavy on blacks and other dark hues (black is the new black), hourglass waists are emphasized and dresses get long. For added quirks, we also have the "Superhero" trend and the "North Woods" trend. Really. Click for more. Gown by Ralph Rucci.
Balenciaga, right, and Versace, left, emphasize simplicity, basic black, and sculpted waists.
Max Azria and J. Mendel sculpt curves into ladylike suiting, also a trend this season.
Along those "superhero" lines, Antonio Beardi creates this wild ensemble, almost like a suit of armor--modernized for today's woman.
Iceberg, L, and Rodarte, R also work the superhero angle. Rodarte's signature "spiderweb" visions--especially the tights--are this falls's touchstone accessory.
Yves Sant Laurent's collection emphasized simplicity, dark colors, and waist-skimming cuts.
While most hues this fall are dark, some noticeable trends are berry colors, flower prints and, here, solid pastels grouped together and layered. Fashions by Prada.
Christian Lacroix, L, and Gary Graham, R, explore that trend of flower prints for fall: strong, intense colors and slightly abstract forms rule. These are late blooms, the rusts of autumn leaves. Ixnay on the aisy-days.
Alexander Wang and Halston both featured long, ankle-skimming fashions; a must-have for this fall is a long skirt.
Working the woodsy trend this season is a surefire winner. Dolce & Gabbana, L, with a more sophistocated, hunting-lodge style; Karen Walker, R, with a flirty tartan trench coat.
Designers ADAM and Carolina Hererra worked the lumberjack look in as well, with warm plaid jackets and layers.